By our (very unscientific) observations, calling a place “magical” is almost always hyperbole. But in Loreto’s case, it’s official: The Mexican government designated it a “Pueblo Mágico” for its astonishing natural beauty, historic preservation, and exceptional charm. After one quick Google Images search, you’ll agree.
Imagine white sandy beaches with impossibly blue waters teeming with more than 800 marine species; a town lined with colorfully painted homes and well-preserved buildings dating back hundreds of years; and some of the best Mexican food of your life. But above all? It doesn’t have the megaresorts and crowds of the better-known parts of Baja California Sur (looking at you, Cabo San Lucas). So go now, before everyone else catches on.
🐠 Sure, you could admire the Sea of Cortez from your beach chair. Or you could jump into what French oceanographer Jacques Cousteau called the “Aquarium of the World.” One of the best places to do that is Loreto Bay National Park, encompassing some 800 square miles of protected waters and five uninhabited islands accessible by boat. Those include Isla Coronados (a favorite for swimming and snorkeling alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and starfish); Isla Danzante (a popular diving spot, thanks to a 180-foot-long sunken ship); and Isla del Carmen (home to a ghost town with abandoned houses, buildings, and salt mines). Plus, there are also many paddleboarding and kayaking opportunities back in town.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE...
⛪ Need a break from the water? Thankfully, there’s plenty to explore on dry land. History buffs can discover ancient cave paintings in the mountains at La Pingüica or wander through the historic Spanish colonial missions dotting the area — like Mission San Francisco Javier de Viggé-Biaundó, with atmospheric gardens worth the 45-minute drive, and downtown’s Mission of Our Lady of Loreto, one of the oldest in the region. Active types, meanwhile, will enjoy a trip to Tabor Canyon, where the hiking trails include dramatic rock formations, desert flowers, and stunning ocean views.
Or, for a more tranquil experience, indulge in Loreto’s burgeoning wellness scene: Book massages and facials at Spa Las Flores, or stay at the sprawling Villa del Palmar for paddleboard
yoga, sound healing, and reiki chakra balancing.
🍴 Fuel up for a day of adventure at local fave Orlando’s, where you can enjoy excellent coffee, traditional chilaquiles, and/or a massive poblano omelet alfresco. For lunch, pop by El Rey del Taco, a no-frills spot with fish tacos so spectacular, you’ll be planning your return visit before you’ve even finished. And since mole is practically required eating in Mexico, make a dinner reservation at Mi Loreto, renowned for its authentic dishes (the mole almendrado and chiles rellenos are must-tries).
Finally, if you’re in town on a Saturday, go to Hotel Oasis’s weekly beachfront clambake to sample the region’s famous chocolate clams (named for their color, not their flavor), which are cooked in the sand by local chefs.